If you didn't make the requisite holiday pilgrimage to the movie theaters this weekend, shame on you. (If you did, and went to see Little Fockers, even more shame is directed your way.) However: those of you who went to see True Grit couldn't have missed the haunting tune that accompanied the movie's closing credits. Turns out that it's none other than Iris DeMent, the singer and songwriter that passed many years in Kansas City as a local folk hero.
DeMent is originally from Arkansas, but her family moved to California at an early age. DeMent then moved to Kansas City to attend college, and stuck around long enough to become a favorite in the Kansas City music scene. In 2002, she married folk troubador Greg Brown -- more on that here.
DeMent was also a favorite artist of the late Anne Winter of Recycled Sounds.
Here's the song that closes the credits of the Coen Brothers' True Grit. I thought it was pretty fabulous (personally, I found the bear man to be a particular highlight). Go, watch, and listen to some local talent add a chilling layer of rustic beauty to an already gorgeous flick.
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I have long admired the Coen brothers work and even longer admired the work of Iris Dement. She has been missing from the scene for some time and, to find the two parties simultaneously is a real joy. Blessings and good fortune upon all of them!!
I sang this song in Sunday school at Elim Chapel in Burnley Lancashire. UK in the 1950's, we sang it a little faster but it was a favourite with all of us kids. Lovely to hear it again, it brought back many happy memories.
Have long been a fan of Iris Dement. Just saw True Grit and KNEW it had to be her singing "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms." Perfect ending to a wonderful movie!
The C brothers drive me nuts. I'm almost always vaguely disappointed their movies at first. I walk out of the theatre thinking "that was okay, but..." Then I start thinking about scenes and, especially the "texture" of the characters, music, etc. Bear Man and this song are among the suspects this time. And yes, I will no doubt see it again...and again.
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